Nestled on the stunning Costa Blanca, Benidorm is a vibrant city that beckons with its blend of sun-soaked beaches, intriguing Benidorm Island, scenic hiking trails, quaint Old Town and buzzing nightlife. It’s been a favourite of British tourists for a decade, and the Spanish coastal city welcomed its highest-ever number of UK tourists in 2022.
This coastal paradise offers an array of experiences, from leisurely sunbathing to exploring lush landscapes and diving into the cultural heartbeat of Spain. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the sea, discover architectural gems, or dance the night away, Benidorm provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable holiday.
With all of this at your fingertips, it’s easy to organise a getaway that you’ll remember fondly for the years to come.
Beaches
Benidorm’s beaches are famed for their golden sands and crystal-clear waters, offering a slice of heaven for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike. You can take a dip in the sea and relax on the gorgeous shorelines all year round.
Levante Beach is one of the most awarded beaches in the world and is located in the centre of the city. It boasts more than 2 kilometres of fine sand and is well-equipped with sun beds, sun umbrellas and terraced cafes.
Tio Ximo Cove is located in the north of the city and offers a more relaxing, quieter experience than the bigger beaches. It’s a great place to enjoy diving and snorkelling and escape the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowds.
Benidorm Island
Benidorm Island, a short boat ride away, is a haven for nature lovers, providing a unique opportunity to explore its rich marine life and rare bird species. Swathed in local legend, the story goes that a lovesick giant tore off the top of the mountains behind Benidorm, Puig Campana, to create this perfect, picturesque island.
Nicknamed The Rock and Peacock Island, Benidorm Island offers spectacular views of the mainland’s skyline and impressive photo opportunities. The island is a nature reserve, so it’s home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, especially birds. Take a stroll through the greenery, jump into the water to try your hand at snorkelling or enjoy a picnic.
You can easily reach the island from the mainland by boarding a glass-bottom boat where you can see the goings-on of fishes and other marine life. The journey ends up being just as exciting as your destination. The boat departs hourly from the port so it’s a perfect day trip.
Hiking
For the adventurous, the surrounding mountains offer a variety of hiking trails with breathtaking views. Taking a day to explore the gorgeous landscape is ideal for interspersing lounging in the sun and beach days.
Combine the sea and mountains by hiking through the natural park of Sierra Helada in the Valencia region. The park covers more than 5,600 hectares and has a selection of organised routes that take you past iconic landmarks such as the Albir Lighthouse or Punta del Cavallo.
You can also take the coastal path of Torre de las Caletes, a winding road that takes you past the Cala del Ti Ximo and Cala de l’Almadrava.
Old Town
A must-visit when holidaying in Benidorm, Casco Antiguo (Old Town) is a charming amalgamation of winding streets, colourful houses, and the stunning Balcon del Mediterraneo. This is one of the most gorgeous attractions of this Spanish metropolis.
It provides a lovely contrast to the skyscrapers and modern buildings in the rest of the city. It’s home to the oldest constructions in the area. Popular attractions include Elche Park, the church of Saint James and Plaza de la Hispanidad.
Nightlife
As the sun sets, Benidorm transforms into a nightlife hub, with an array of bars, clubs, and live music venues catering to all tastes. Considered the party capital of the Costa Blanca, the hub of the area, Avenida de Alcoy, boasts a vibrant promenade brimming with lively clubs and bars.
Locals enjoy drinks and snacks in the Basque area of Benidorm, where there is a variety of tapas and pintxos bars. British tourists will find their own party zone in the city, located between Calles Girona, Lepanto and Avenida de Mallorca. You’ll find Anglo-Saxon pubs offering karaoke and pub quizzes.
Transport
Getting around is a breeze, thanks to the city’s efficient public transport system, ensuring you can easily explore every corner of this enchanting destination. Walking is the best way to get around in Benidorm, but you’ll also find city buses, trams, taxis and bicycles at your disposal.
You can get from the airport to your accommodation easily too and vice versa. Book a transfer from Alicante to Benidorm before leaving the UK. Once you touch down at Alicante airport, you don’t need to worry about getting to your destination. Instead, you can focus on exploring and enjoying your holiday.